Subscription-based services are all the rage these days. Companies like Birchbox, Barkbox, Dollar Shave Club and many more understand consumers' desire to have a shopping experience catered to their tastes and run with the notion. More businesses of this kind continue to pop up over time, and for good reason. These types of subscriptions offer organizations a wealth of benefits. Let's take a look at some examples:
Convenience
Many of the advantages of subscription services are twofold: both the customer and the business stand to gain from the endeavor. The first of these benefits is convenience. Customers get their regular delivery option sent to their email, mailbox or doorstep filled with goodies that fit their preferences. On the other hand, the companies compiling the subscription itself can utilize customer surveys or checklists to complete the package. Both parties get what they want: an easy-to-fulfill shopping experience.
Additionally, clients never have to remember to place another order every week or month. Instead, consumers specify the frequency of their subscription when they make their initial purchase, and the item shows up on time every period, eConsultancy said.
Value
Consumers are always looking for goods and services that provide the best bang for their buck. Similar to software-as-a-service companies, businesses that focus on subscription offer their customers a flat rate, which helps them stay within the budget, according to Entrepreneur. This means no matter how much or how little clients want to pay, subscription-service organizations have an option to provide. Furthermore, these companies can give consumers extra value by offering bundling or getting a number of products for the price of one.
Predictable revenue
It's important for organizations in a variety of industries to know what their next week, month or year looks like in terms of income. Companies offering subscription services have a leg up on their competition. Offering their goods at a specific rate on a regular basis enables these organizations to more accurately predict their revenue, according to Hubspot. Of course, these numbers are subject to change – businesses always face a loss in subscribers. However, as the amount of customers increases of time, so does revenue, giving companies a clear idea of what they're bringing in during a specific period.
"Consistency and efficiency can improve the loyalty of customers to subscription businesses."
Long-term loyalty
Every company relies on the strength of its relationship with customers as an indicator of success over time. Businesses aim to develop goods, services and communications that will entice their consumers to continue making purchases with their organization. Subscription companies utilize the client information in their possession to curate deliveries for their customers that will not only fit their pre-described preferences, but keep them interested enough to continue their subscription. In addition, receiving these packages in a timely manner and at a economical price will help improve client satisfaction and loyalty in the long term.
Automation
Subscription-based businesses handling a lot of orders can struggle to meet the demand in house. These companies have the option to work with third-party partners to complete the management and distribution portion of the organization. Service providers can outsource this task to make the system more efficient, allowing the organization itself to focus on more important obligations, including fostering stronger relationships with their clientele.
Subscription-based ecommerce is a booming industry in today's economy. Customers enjoy having customized packages delivered to their doorstep on a pre-scheduled basis. Pair that with budget-friendly prices and customers will be introduced to a shopping experience that encourages long-term loyalty. In addition to the consumer benefits, these subscription businesses also gain the ability to easily forecast revenue and automate their order management system.
